OPA Cancer Charity

OPA Cancer Charity The OPA has led the fight against oesophageal and gastric cancers for over 40 years. Whatever stage you're at the OPA is here to help you.

Their purpose is to support patients, families, carers and to raise awareness of these cancers and their prevention.

Some days, hope is all you need to keep going.When someone you love hears the words oesophageal or gastric cancer, the w...
02/10/2026

Some days, hope is all you need to keep going.

When someone you love hears the words oesophageal or gastric cancer, the world can feel very small. But nobody has to face it alone.

Every time you share a post, talk about the signs or check in on a friend, awareness grows. And where awareness grows, hope follows. More people spot the signs sooner, ask for help and find support.

Knowing the signs changes everything.

Since 1989, the OPA has offered free support to patients, carers and families. That includes our helpline, patient booklets and support groups, where people meet others who truly understand.

Tag someone who makes you stronger, or share this with someone who needs a little hope today. 💜

Who's been your biggest source of strength? Tell us below.

Comment SIGNS and we'll send you the early signs and our helpline number.

Earlier diagnosis saves lives. opa.org.uk · 0121 704 9860

03/09/2026

Most people don’t realise that persistent acid reflux or heartburn can be an early symptom of oesophageal cancer.

Heartburn that happens on most days for three weeks or more, keeps coming back, gets worse over time, or does not improve with treatment should not be ignored.

These symptoms are often mistaken for everyday digestive problems, which is why oesophageal cancer is frequently diagnosed at a later stage.

Knowing what to look out for and acting early can make a real difference. If symptoms persist or feel unusual for you, speak to your GP.

Free Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Packs are available to order via our website: www.opa.org.uk

Thank you so much to Victoria who is taking on the Sheffield 10K in memory of Tom Mitchell, who was sadly taken from his...
27/08/2026

Thank you so much to Victoria who is taking on the Sheffield 10K in memory of Tom Mitchell, who was sadly taken from his loved ones at just 26 years old.

She is raising vital funds for OPA Cancer Charity in Tom’s memory, helping us support people affected by oesophageal cancer.

Every step is for Tom. 🏃‍♀️💜

Victoria's Just Giving page can be found on our website or on this direct link-
https://www.justgiving.com/page/toms-team-5?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL

Major Breakthrough in Oesophageal Cancer Research as First Patient Receives Vaccine in Landmark Trial ‼️
13/08/2026

Major Breakthrough in Oesophageal Cancer Research as First Patient Receives Vaccine in Landmark Trial ‼️

02/08/2026

Heartburn is common — and in most cases, it will not be caused by cancer. But when something becomes persistent or changes from what is normal for you, it deserves attention.

Please contact your GP if you experience heartburn most days for three weeks or more, if your usual treatment is no longer helping, or if you develop other symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or unexplained weight loss.

You are not wasting anyone’s time by getting checked. Recognising a change and seeking advice early can make a real difference.

Save this post as a reminder, and share it with someone who may need to see it.

For information and support relating to oesophageal or gastric cancer, visit opa.org.uk.

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29/07/2026

Around 40% of people in the UK are unknowingly carrying Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a common stomach infection that often shows no symptoms.

Left untreated, it can damage the stomach lining and is linked to about 40% of stomach cancer cases.

If you have ongoing indigestion, bloating, nausea, or stomach pain that won’t go away, it’s important to speak to your GP. A simple breath, stool, or blood test can detect the infection, and treatment with antibiotics is usually effective.

Early testing and treatment save lives. Don’t ignore persistent symptoms.

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28/07/2026

Difficulty swallowing does not always begin with a dramatic episode of choking.

It may appear as a quieter change: food taking longer to go down, pain or burning when you swallow, certain foods becoming harder to manage, or food coming back up soon after eating.

These symptoms can be caused by many different conditions and do not necessarily mean cancer. However, difficulty swallowing is one of the most common symptoms of oesophageal cancer and should always be checked by a GP.

If swallowing feels different, is becoming more difficult or does not feel normal for you, please do not wait for it to become severe before asking for help.

Save this post. Share it with someone who may not realise that dysphagia can be subtle.

OPA Cancer Charity provides trusted information and support for people affected by oesophageal and gastric cancer.

Visit opa.org.uk

CancerAwareness EarlyDiagnosis SpeakToYourGP UKHealth OPACancerCharity i prefer this weriting style always pls

From everyone at OPA Cancer Charity, a heartfelt thank you to Ash and Andrea Radford, and to everyone involved in the Ch...
17/07/2026

From everyone at OPA Cancer Charity, a heartfelt thank you to Ash and Andrea Radford, and to everyone involved in the Charity Cricket Match in memory of Wayne Radford.

We are truly grateful that you chose to support our charity. Your generosity, hard work, and dedication will make a real difference to people affected by oesophageal and gastric cancer. 💜🏏

Address

Unit 4, Bordesley Hall Farm Barns
Birmingham
B487ES

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